Amoebic Colitis Diet

Amoebic colitis results when an individual has had amoebic dysentery, and ulcers have developed and are infected by the parasite that initially caused the dysentery. As a result, the lining of the colon becomes inflamed, resulting in symptoms such as diarrhea, severe pain, high fever and bloody stools.
While the patient is ill, a solution of salt and glucose is often used to rehydrate him. During recovery, a basic, easily digested diet is essential.

Lifestyle Choices

• One result of amoebic colitis is an irritated and damaged digestive system. There are a few simple lifestyle choices that can ease the body's healing process.
  Though it is important for everyone to drink plenty of water, it is essential that the body recovering from amebic colitis remain well-hydrated. Drinking six to eight glasses of water daily will keep the body functioning properly and will prevent constipation.
  Eat small, regular meals; eat when hungry, stop when satisfied. Large meals can irritate the digestive system and result in discomfort.
  During meals, take small bites and chew the food completely. This will aid the body's ability to process the food.

Foods to Avoid

• It is important to avoid irritating the digestive system while eating nutritious food to help the body recover. Alcohol and caffeine should both be avoided--not only can they irritate the digestive system, but they affect hydration.
  Foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, beans, raw vegetables and tough meats, can be difficult to digest. During recovery, it is best to avoid these foods.
  Though gas is not a significant problem, it may prove to be uncomfortable during recovery. Avoiding foods that cause gas, such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, dried peas, lentils, onions, chives, peppers and carbonated beverages is a good idea.

Foods to Focus On

• Low-fiber foods that are easily digestible are the best things to eat after suffering from amoebic colitis. Bananas, white rice, applesauce and toast (not whole grain), and perhaps herbal tea and yogurt (if you are not lactose intolerant) are good starter foods. They're soothing, easily digestible and filling.
  Other foods that are easily digested include refined breads (including bagels and English muffins), cereals (like Cheerios and Cream of Wheat), crackers, refined pasta, fruit juices (except prune juice), melon, peaches, apricots, vegetable juices, skinless potatoes, tender meat, fish, tofu and eggs.
  These food choices are full of nutrients and calories to help the body heal and help the patient get back to a normal, healthy diet.